Geography and Environment, PhD

The PhD is a research degree in which the thesis, contributing original knowledge to the field of research, is the primary focus. Graduates go on to academic careers or to other occupations in which doctoral-level education is an asset or prerequisite. Courses are chosen to ensure that students have the background required to undertake the thesis research. Students are educated in geographical research through courses and especially through direct individual supervision.

Admission Requirements

Additional Requirements

• Covering letter (offering additional information or clarification of application items).
• Sample of graduate-level writing.
• Résumé (a brief summary of experience, achievements and skills).
• Copies of relevant publications, if available.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English must furnish evidence of their proficiency in the use of the English language:

• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). iBT (internet-Based Test): The minimum acceptable score is 86, with no individual score below 20 for the internet based version, or 550 for the paper and pencil version. [Western's TOEFL ID is 0984].
• The International English Language Testing Service Academic (IELTS Academic). The minimum acceptable score is 6.5 out of 9. The IELTS is offered in six test centres in the US and three in Canada.

The Department of Geography and Environment does not require applicants to submit GRE scores, but these can be submitted in support of an application.